Mount Apo (Apo Sandawa)

2,954m (9,692ft)

There are 4 known trails to pick from. The trails take from 2 to 5 days to complete the trek, with some trails being more demanding than others.

The first trail is the Sibulan Trail, which takes three days to complete with camping at the Tinikaran camps on the way up.

The second trail is the Kapatagan Trail, which crosses over the Sibulan Trail at various places, but takes a few hours longer than the Sibulan Trail to reach the summit. The Kapatagan Trail also takes about 3 days to complete with camping and rest stops along the way.

The third trail is the Kidapawan Trail. This trail is considered less demanding and is the easiest way of reaching the peak of Mount Apo, taking two days to complete, including the descent.

The last trail, named Mt. Talomo Trail, is the most physically demanding and longest trail, taking hikers through a range of less wandered areas of the mountain. This trail takes five full days just to reach the peak.

The terrain along Mount Apo is thriving with lush forests and more wildlife than volcanic rock.

Mount Apo can be split into 3 distinct types of forest. From the beginning of the ascent, climbers experience low-land tropical rainforests. Although striking and lush, the beginning of the ascent is seen as somewhat of a natural obstacle course. Hikers must watch their step for tree roots, slippery stones, and potentially snakes.

When reaching the mid-mountain forests of Mount Apo, the lush terrain will narrow down ever so slightly with fewer trees and animals around and more boulders and slopes to tackle.

As the hiker gets closer to the peaks, vegetation can still be seen but is much less lush and thick compared to the lower altitudes, and very few animals are found due to the lack of oxygen. Climbing becomes somewhat easier due to fewer obstacles but physical strength is needed to tackle the almost vertical stretches to reach the peaks of Mount Apo.

The Kapatagan Trail specifically has a much wider path compared to the Sibulan Trail.

On the Kidapawan Trail, you will pass by hot springs, rivers, and luscious rainforests, as well as Lake Venado.

The climate of Mount Apo is generally tropical and rainy. Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year. Heavy rains, floods, and landslides are relatively common during the winter so it is recommended not to climb Mount Apo during these times.

The temperature at Mount Apo depends on the time of year with lows of about 9°C (48.4 °F) and highs of around 20°C (68°F). Strong winds are common at higher altitudes and at the peaks. The preferred months to climb Mount Apo are the summer months from March to May when the weather is generally pleasant.

Reliable hiking boots are important for this hike, and hiking poles would be helpful to reduce the risk of falling but are not a necessity. Thermal vests and thermal sleeping bags are recommended due to the almost freezing temperatures at night and in the early morning.

There is food, potable water, and a registration kiosk at the trailhead.

The trail itself has potable water along the way and rest-stop shelters.

The summit base camp has potable water, food, and shelters for overnight rest.

Guides are recommended as there are some tricky sections, and it is safer to be with someone who knows the trail. Porters are recommended, as even the shortest trail requires an overnight stop, which will require additional paraphernalia.

Davao Airport can be reached directly from Manila, Cebu, and other main cities around the Philippines. The preferred way to travel to the starting point is via taxi or rental car. Taking a minibus or local bus is also an option. The distance covered from Davao to the starting point is around 57km (35.4 mi). Depending on the traffic, the journey usually takes around 3 hours.

It is recommended to tackle the climb with a partner or in a group to ensure help is available if necessary. Keep an eye out for snakes!